Fifth DUI Offense Results in Melrose Man Being Rescued from Freezing River

On Sunday morning January 4, a Melrose, Massachusetts man was eventually arrested for a fifth drunken driving offense and other charges following a chase that led to the man having to be rescued from the Malden River, according to a news article at the Boston Globe.

John Kellum, the 42-year-old man who had been reported to police to be driving while intoxicated, led police on a wild chase that resulted in damage to police cruisers and parked cars before Kellum’s pickup truck eventually ended up in the river.

Melrose police spokesman John Guilfoil said that police arrived on the scene at about 1:30 in the morning; Kellum had already crashed into two vehicles parked along the street. He then allegedly rammed a police cruiser before driving off. As police officers pursued him at what they called a “safe distance,” Kellum drove his pickup truck at a police cruiser, causing it to strike a curb as the officer attempted to swerve away from the suspect’s truck; the cruiser lost a tire in the incident. According to the news article, Kellum had several flat tires during the course of the chase, but continued to drive on the rims, creating an extremely dangerous situation.

Ultimately, Kellum drover into the river, got out of the truck, and waded into frigid waters that were waist high. Kellum swam away as others were trying to rescue him from the freezing water, however he was eventually captured and taken to a local hospital.

Kellum faces a long list of charges including operating a motor vehicle with a revoked license and operating under the influence of alcohol, fifth offense.

In the state of Michigan, a 3rd or subsequent DUI offense is a felony, which results in extremely serious criminal penalties for those convicted. A third DUI is the highest a person can go, regardless of whether he/she has been arrested four, five, six, or more times. If found guilty, the defendant will face penalties that include driver’s license revocation, substantial fines, up to 5 years in prison, community service, vehicle immobilization, and other punishment.

Having a DUI on your criminal record can affect all aspects of your life. Loss of freedom and the privilege to drive are the worst consequences for most people, so it is vital to consult with a skilled and experienced Michigan drunk driving defense attorney immediately. It may be possible to have charges dismissed or reduced, depending on your situation. If you do go to court, your attorney will work vigorously to limit the damage and obtain good results.